Üç Tepeler Tumulus consists of ancient burial mounds located on the old Istanbul road, 3 kilometers from Izmit city center. Its vaulted structure and pen-work decorations make it the only example of its kind in Kocaeli.
Standing right by the old Istanbul road, within the borders of Izmit's Kabaoğlu Neighborhood, the Üç Tepeler Tumulus is a historical heritage site that, despite being only 3 kilometers from the city center, is not widely known by many Izmit residents. The tumuli have become the symbol of the Üçtepeler area, which they named; street and neighborhood names in the region clearly reflect their debt to these three hills.
The tumuli have a remarkable scale, reaching approximately 2.5 meters in height and at least 10 meters in length. The vaulted architecture and the pen-work decorations inside exhibit a unique style not found in any other example in Kocaeli. The area is not arranged for visitors; the surrounding bushes and lack of maintenance make the historical structures difficult to see. This situation makes the site interesting for researchers and history enthusiasts, but difficult to consider as a casual tourist stop.
Related discoveries: Historical Sites, Kocaeli historical sites, Kefken Island.
Guide's Note
What is Üç Tepeler Tumulus?
A tumulus is the name given to burial mounds created in ancient times by piling earth over important individuals. These three tumuli in Izmit are located on the old Istanbul road route and gave their name to the area where they are found. Due to the pen-work decorations and vaulted architecture not found in any other example in Kocaeli, it holds a special place in the region's archaeological heritage. The research file does not contain clear date information regarding the exact period to which the tumuli belong; it is recommended to consult the Kocaeli Archaeology and Ethnography Museum for the precise historical period.
When to Visit?
Since the area is outdoors, season selection is important. The periods of April–June and September–November should be preferred, as both the weather conditions are favorable and the surrounding vegetation has not yet become dense. In mid-summer, bushes and tall grass cover can make approaching the tumuli difficult. A morning visit offers an advantage in terms of natural light illuminating the vaulted interior.
How to Get There?
A drive of approximately 3 kilometers from Izmit city center via the old Istanbul road (towards Umuttepe) is sufficient. The tumulus is located on Ay Tepesi Mevkii, right by the asphalt road, so it can be noticed while driving past. A private car is the most practical method of transportation. Those preferring public transport can take minibuses from Izmit towards Umuttepe, alight at Kabaoğlu Neighborhood, and reach the site with a short walk.
How Much Time Should Be Allocated?
Üç Tepeler Tumulus is not a place that requires an independent day program. An average of 30–45 minutes is sufficient to examine the tumuli, take photos, and explore the surroundings. It is possible to combine the site with other historical points in Izmit city center (Kocaeli Archaeology and Ethnography Museum or nearby Roman aqueduct ruins) to include it in a half-day cultural itinerary.
Suggested Itinerary
For a day focused on history in Izmit, the following order is suggested: Start your morning with Üç Tepeler Tumulus, then see the Roman aqueduct ruins in the Üçtepeler area. In the afternoon, return to the city center and visit the Kocaeli Archaeology and Ethnography Museum; here you can examine the archaeological artifacts found in the region in more detail. You can complete the day with a walk along the Izmit bay coast.
Things to Know Before Visiting
The area is an unarranged historical site in terms of visitor infrastructure. There is no official entrance gate, signage, or guided tour service. Due to the surrounding bushes and unkempt ground, sturdy, closed-toe shoes should be preferred. When entering the interior parts of the tumuli, be careful not to damage the structure; the pen-work decorations can be fragile. It is recommended to confirm visiting hours and any restrictions by calling the Kocaeli Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism before you go.
Photo Spots
The vaulted entrances of the tumuli offer a strong composition, especially when framed by natural light around midday. The pen-work decorations inside are an interesting source of detail for close-up shots; a macro or wide-angle lens is advantageous in this area. To show the entire tumulus in a single frame, stepping back a bit and using the surrounding vegetation as a foreground can be an effective choice. Morning light illuminates the earth-colored structures with a soft tone.
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